Luxury Ngorongoro Crater Safaris

Definitely. I would argue that the most exciting part of a Ngorongoro safari is the descent down the crater walls. There is no place quite as dramatic or unique as it in all of Tanzania – if not, all of Africa. The views you’ll experience are unparalleled – from the crater rim looking across to the Great Rift Valley, or from the bottom of the crater floor, looking up at the 600-meter crater walls. It’s a spectacular landscape, and one I’d argue is a must for first-time safaris to Tanzania.

This is certainly one of the most frequently asked questions about a Ngorongoro Crater safari but yes, it can get busy inside the crater. The reason being is that – aside from being one of the most desirable places to see in Tanzania – there are only a couple of roads that take you down into the crater, and along the crater floor. As off-roading is not permitted, all vehicles share the same paths and roads, which is why it can feel congested at times. That said, the safari guides and drivers are professional and respectful, so they will make sure that there are equal and fair opportunities to spend time with sightings.

Both destinations are very different in terms of the landscape and safari experience. The Ngorongoro Crater is often a bucket-list destination that needs no longer than two days to enjoy. The Serengeti is a completely different experience, offering the desirable open-sided vehicle game drives, and a more communal feel. Because of their differences, we often recommend combining the two together in a northern Tanzania itinerary.

There are two main options when it comes to choosing accommodation for the Ngorongoro Crater. The first option, and the more commonly-chosen, is to stay in a safari camp or hotel along the crater rim. The benefits of these properties is that you are close to the entry gates down into the crater. Another is that you often get stunning views across the Ngorongoro Crater which really give you a sense of its true size.

The other option is to stay in a safari camp or lodge further out, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is a large area that connects the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti National Park and the Great Rift Valley, compassing landscapes of forests, woodlands, highland plains and open savannahs. These are more secluded and intimate one, with cultural and hiking opportunities.